EL ESPACIAMIENTO EN PLANTACIONES FORESTALES

Abstract

This article analyzes some aspects related to one of the fundamental decisions that must be taken when establishing these populations: defining the spacing at which the population will grow. The spacing is one of the decisive factors on the behavior of the population. and influences the growth characteristics. about production. the age at which • it can be used and on the cultural practices to be applied to it. To select the proper spacing. should be considered as well. the quality of the planting site. the species to be planted and the genetic quality of the material to be used. in addition to the interactions that occur between these components. The results obtained by many authors allow to point out, among other things, that: Mortality and spacing are highly related. So. the smaller the spacing, the greater the mortality and that this relationship is affected by age. the species and site conditions. The spacing influences the development in diameter more than the growth in height of the trees. Dense populations produce a greater total volume of wood than those less dense: greater spacings produce a larger number of trees with greater individual volume and better shape and dimensions. The useful volume of wood can be similar between populations with larger and smaller numbers of individuals. The main negative consequences. small spacings. they can be summarized in a higher consumption of plants and fertilizers per hectare, as well as a greater difficulty for weed control and harvesting, a greater number of thinning cuts and a greater production of small-sized wood. all of them working to increase the cost of establishment and reduce the sale price of products, of lower quality and dimensions.